What are the common problems to look out for as a rabbit owner?

Many of the issues seen in rabbits develop from being fed the incorrect diet. It is important to make sure you are feeding your rabbit correctly to meet their dietary needs and to avoid health problems.

Key common problems can include:

Gut Stasis: This is a condition where the digestive system slows down or even stop, resulting in the build-up of gas and toxins. If left untreated it can be fatal. Gut stasis in some cases has been linked with selective feeding and reduced access intake, both commonly be linked to feeding a muesli based diets.

Myxomatosis and VHD: These are life threatening viruses to the rabbit species, however both conditions can be vaccinated against. Find out more in our later blogs about these diseases.

Dental Disease: This is classed as the most common problem in rabbits and is often due to the lack of fibrous material within their diets which help grind down their teeth naturally.

Fly Strike: This condition occurs when flies lay eggs on the rabbit, typically around their bottom, which will hatch into maggots and cause skin damage. Flystrike is commonly associated with obesity – overweight bunnies cannot clean themselves properly, and flies will be attracted to wet fur and sticky faeces.

If you are ever concerned about your rabbit, please contact the practice.